#1
MildObstruction
then let my “insanity” be the mother of my betrayal
CAGiversary! 16633 Posts Joined 11.5 Years Ago

Hey trade-in pals! SENDING THINGS IN DISC / CARTRIDGE ONLY / GENERIC CASE NO MANUAL / ANYTHING BUT COMPLETE COULD RESULT IN REJECTION. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS. YOU MIGHT GET ACCEPTED, YOU MIGHT NOT. NO ONE KNOWS. THERE ARE NO HARD AND FAST RULES. IF IT IS ACCEPTED, IT WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY ONLY BE CONSIDERED "ACCEPTABLE." RISK YOUR TIME AND EFFORT AT YOUR PERIL!

I'm getting an acceptance rate of about one per day; it makes me think some supervisor is standing around with a glass of absinthe next to a couple of dumptruck loads of games...while the one responsible for the glitch is made to scan each item and recite its TIV with tears in their eyes.

THANKS TO DISILLUSION386 and GI60 FOR POSTING AND MAINTAINING THE PREVIOUS AMAZON TRADE-IN FAQ THREADS

This thread’s primary purpose is to discuss Amazon.com’s video game trade-in program. Conspiracy theories about NORAM smashing games before sending them back / stealing children / sneezing and touching public door handles / etc welcome, but try to avoid going nutso. PLEASE READ THE TRADE-IN DEAL DETAILS AND FAQ BEFORE ASKING ANY QUESTIONS.

Trade-In Procedure

1. SELECT ITEMS: Search for items to trade in. Your trade-in items must meet the product eligibility criteria.2. SHIP GAMES FREE: Print a shipping label and packing slip, package your games, and ship them 3. GET A GIFT CARD: An Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account upon receipt of games

Shipping Instructions

1. Print this entire page. (Packing slip and shipping label once you have submitted a trade)2. Cut out the shipping label and the packing slip.3. Make sure your items are in good working condition and include the case and cover art.4. Securely pack the items in a box or envelope and include the packing slip in the package.5. Attach the shipping label squarely onto the outside of the package and add your return address.6. Take it to your nearest UPS Store and mail it by (one week from submission of trade)7. Or you can ship to:note to self: look up new address

Trade-In Product Eligibility

Trade-in items must match the exact version displayed in the Amazon Trade-In Store, not be damaged, include original packaging (e.g. the manual, cover art, and case), and be postmarked no later than 7 days after submission. You will receive an e-mail confirmation and an Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account within 2 business days of item receipt and verification by the merchant. Items not accepted by the merchant will be returned to you approximately 14 days after receipt.

GENERAL FAQ (Updated 06/07/2011) Can I post a question on this thread?

Spoiler

Only if you can't find the answer from below. And please let me know if it needs to be added to FAQ.

Can I edit this FAQ? (updated 6/7/11)

Spoiler

You bet! Up top there is a section for notable TIVs - feel free to add anything in there (and if you can remember, clean up after yourself in a few days when the TIV has undoubtedly dropped). You can edit the FAQ too, please just make sure it's useful and well formatted! Thanks!

Since when did Amazon start doing trades?

Spoiler

The program began in 2009 and is handled by a third party merchant, NorAm International.

What kind of shipping does Amazon provide us?

Spoiler

Free UPS ground ---- USPS is no longer available for free. There is now also an option to provide your own shipping.

Do I have to provide my own box or envelope?

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Yes.

Do all my games in the same trade-in submission have to be shipped in the same box? (updated 3/9/11)

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Not necessarily - people have sent in multiple boxes for the same trade-in submission successfully. It's even possible to send half at one time and the other half at the end of the valid shipping period. However, it's probably best to always ship everything at once.

Can I put separate trades in to a single box? (updated 6/7/11)

Spoiler

Sure, and they'll likely be accepted just fine. However, it isn't recommended since you would only have proof that you sent one of the trades (whichever mailing label you used). So it can be pretty risky.

Can I send in sealed games?

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Yes. They won't reject games that still have the original shrink wrap.

Can I add Delivery Confirmation and Insurance to my shipment?

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UPS Ground already provides you with tracking information, and I imagine you could get some sort of insurance added at a UPS store or location if you were so inclined.

I don't trust UPS ground. Can I pay for postage myself? What's the address?

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Yes. You're more than welcome to do so. The address is:NorAm International22 Hampshire DrHudson, NH 03051(This is also an option when submitting your trades)

When do I have to send my games once I have submitted my trade order?

Spoiler

You have 1 week (7 days) to send your games. There have been reports of submitting trades up to 15 - 20 days late, but that is definitely ymmv. Send on time for the best chance at success!

Crap, I have one day to go before my shipment deadline, but the website states that my deadline has already passed. How do I print out a shipping label and packing slip?

Spoiler

Load up any existing order (if you don't have any, check your browser's history or just submit a new one to use the link), and substitute the transaction ID for the trade-in order you need at the end of the URL.

How long does the whole trade-in process usually take?

Spoiler

From the time you send in your games, it may take up to 14 business days for the package to arrive. Most people usually receive their credit (Amazon GiftCard) in 3 to 5 business days, however.

How long does the "processing" status usually take? (Updated 6/8/11)

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Usually a day or with little delay at all, but the longest reported days so far is 4.

My games were received on Friday (based on Delivery Confirmation), will I have to wait until Monday to receive credit?

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People have received credit on a Saturday.

I do not have the manual, cover art, or original case for a game I want to trade in. Will they accept it? (updated 6/9/11)

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While the details specifically state that original packaging is necessary, people have reported in the past that their trades were accepted despite missing some of these. This is extremely YMMV, however since some were also rejected by missing manual or cover art. On the other hand, older gen games; such as SNES, N64, and GB cartridges, normally get accepted without the original box and manual, but still YMMV.

It should be noted that with the new condition requirements (see later in the FAQ), you may be able to send an item in missing some or all of the required items (manual / cover art / case) and still have it accepted in "Acceptable" condition.

I do not have the manual, accessories, original box, original included game, etc for a console or accessory I want to trade in. Will they accept it? (updated 3/9/11)

Spoiler

The current wisdom is "probably not" - it's pretty YMMV but NorAm seems stricter than they should be on this. Your chances seem to be better for them accepting a console or accessory without the box / manual / etc if it's older generation or rare. You're more than welcome to give it a shot though if you're feeling lucky - just pack it well and include as much as you can!

My game is really beat up, what are the chances they’ll accept it?

Spoiler

This is YMMV. Some people have reported in the past that they sent in games in bad shape that were still accepted. Your best bet is still to trade in games in mint condition. Minor scratches are expected as these are used games.

My game came with DLC codes and I used them. Will my game be accepted? (Updated 12/28/11)

Spoiler

It is expected that included DLC codes have already been redeemed, so you should be fine. It is a kindness however if you have no use for it to not redeem it and let the next lucky soul who buys it from awd or wherever have a crack at it. Up to you!

My cover art (PLATINUM HITS) differs from the pic on amazon, will my trade be accepted?

Spoiler

It all depends on the UPC so just turn your game around, type in the UPC into the amazon search box. If the game comes up, then it's accepted regardless of cover art. Click on that result to submit your trade.

I have a game from a limited edition bundle, will they accept it?

Spoiler

If the game’s cover art has a UPC barcode, they will most likely accept it. If your game's cover states "Not for Resale" and does not have a UPC barcode, the game will most likely get rejected. Some people have had their games accepted in the past, but this is very YMMV.

The UPC barcode is not intact on my game's cover art, will that be accepted? (updated 3/9/11)

Spoiler

This is YMMV, but probably not. The UPC is all powerful within the walls of NorAm.

I sent in my games, all of which were in pristine condition with the original packaging, but they said that one game is damaged and is now being returned.

Spoiler

Always pack your games well. Put a lot of newspaper around your games in the box to secure them and to prevent any damages from haphazard box cutting. People in the past have requested their entire trade-in order if it’s obvious the damage wasn’t their fault, and Amazon ended up accepting the rejected game. This is YMMV as well.

Can I trade in multiple copies of the same game?

Spoiler

Yes. Once you click “Trade in” for a particular game, you may change the quantities. Once you submit, you can no longer change quantities on that trade-in batch.

How many multiple copies of the same game can I trade-in (updated 1/11/11)?

Spoiler

Maximum of 2 copies within 3 a month period.

I locked in X copies of a game but I now only have Y available to send. Can I just send in Y without being penalized? (updated 3/9/11)

Spoiler

Yes, you can always just send in a portion of your trade-in order and they'll just credit you for whatever they receive. However, the quantities you submitted for will stay locked in that instance (I think) so if you, for example, submitted for 2 copies and only sent 1, you may not be able to trade any more copies of that game for 3 months (see previous question).

Will the Trade-in of the Day TIV stay for 24 hours?

Spoiler

It's been reported that there is a limit (maximum # of copies) that will get the promoted TIV so lock yours.

So if I find a good flip, I can just send 2 copies of that game and not worry about Amazon accusing me of stolen merchandise?

Spoiler

Technically yes, but do keep in mind that other CAGs might want to participate in the current deal, and trading in a large number of the same game will definitely lower the TIV of said game. Let’s be nice to other people. This is probably moot for most folks now with the per account / address trade-in limit.

Wow, these TIVs suck (updated 3/9/11)!

Spoiler

Really? Hrm. While that may be true, they're often better than other comparable places. Your options of what to do with your used games are greater now than they've ever been, so feel free to shop your trades around or just sell them off on glyde/gamestaq/ebay/whatever. Also, not a question.

What the ? The TIV of a game I just bought for this deal tanked! What do I do?

Spoiler

The TIVs on Amazon fluctuate depending on the number of trades that are submitted, and we really can’t do anything about it. The best course of action for trading in games is to lock in your trade if you already have the games or are absolutely sure that you can obtain them. You can always cancel the trade submission if you end up not finding the games.LOCK = SUBMIT YOUR TRADE, Don't just put it in the cart.

Can I edit a submitted trade?

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Nope - once upon a time you could modify trade in quantities of submitted trades, but that ability has been removed.

Can I use my credit on items that are not video game-related?

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Yes. This is the other perk for trading in games at Amazon since you're not limited to just video games.

Can I use my credit on items sold by third-party merchants on Amazon?

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According to the fine print of the Amazon gift card use, some merchants are excluded. Your best bet is to try it on the checkout page of your order.

Strategy guides? I can trade in game/strategy guides? Whaaaaa?

Spoiler

Go to the Textbook Buyback section (http://www.amazon.co....ode=2205237011[/URL]). You can either search on the title of a strategy guide you have to see if they'll accept it, or search for guides. The two best search strings to start with are 'prima guides' and 'bradygames'. Might try 'doublejump' if you want to trade in some of those. (Thanks eugaet)

I locked in some hilariously overvalued trade for some weird rare game/accessory/etc that I can pick up for cheap cheap cheap. They didn't accept it. What should I do? (updated 3/9/11)

Spoiler

The truth is that NORAM can reject things for any reason they see fit. While some people have managed to get silly things like a $200 credit for some cheerleading game (or for a PS2 - just ask io!), it's sooooooo YMMV that often it's not worth the effort. EXPECT REJECTION ON THINGS THAT ARE CLEARLY MISVALUED. That said, as long as you're willing to risk it, go for it!

What's all this item condition nonsense? And how can I get screwed over by it? (updated 6/9/11)

Spoiler

We're still kinda sussing out the details surrounding the new item condition portion of Amazon Trade-Ins, but it looks like there's a couple things to consider:

Good Condition eligibility (games):

- The video game, original manufacturer packaging and all original elements are included, but shows wear from normal use - Game still plays perfectly - Disc may have light scratches and other elements may have minor damage - Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)

Acceptable eligibility (games):

- Game still plays perfectly - Item may have been personalized (marked or identified) - Item may be missing or have irreparable damage to one or all of the following: case, manual, artwork, bundled accessories, UPC

Note that a game will almost certainly not be accepted if it meets any of these conditions:

- Game does not play perfectly - Disc is cracked - Marked Not for Resale (or is otherwise marked not for sale)

Consoles/accessories have some slightly different criteria, but the idea is the same.

Did it seriously just ask me if I wanted my game / other item returned if they refuse to give me credit for it? (updated 6/9/11)

Spoiler

Yes, that just happened.

Unless you're purposefully sending them things you deem to be trash, please remember to choose the option that has them return your item to you during the checkout phase.

Who is AFS? (updated 6/9/11)

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Not sure yet, but that's the name on the trade-in shipping labels now instead of NORAM. May just be NORAM with a different name. This will be updated as we learn more.

hello-thinking of sending an elite in. Any success sending them in without the original box yet?

I'm nervous sending mine in and I have all the original packaging and stuff. I'm not sure I'd do it without the box - unless you are willing to take the $140 "acceptable" downgrade (which still isn't too bad but pales in comparison to the $200 for "good").

New thread! Very nice. If anyone wants to change colors on their DS3, the black trades in for $24.75 and the blue trades in for $25.90. Also, infamous trades in for $8 if you got it free for the PSN welcome back.

#10
anarch
And all that could have been...
CAGiversary! 2077 Posts Joined 8.5 Years Ago

Thanks for the heads up on the elite trade-in. My girlfriend is moving in so we don't need two 360s, and my old elite just went out of warranty. I still have the original box and components, so this trade-in is perfect timing. I'm just debating on whether I should reject lower offers; $140 isn't that great, but is still probably better than what Gamestop would offer...

Just a heads up that it was trading for $10 at GS and with the 50% promo + PUR you could get $16. I believe that price was current through yesterday. It could always drop, but still is probably more than the $8 from Amazon. That is a case where GS clearly beats Amazon.

Edit: Price still good at GS as of 6/9 according to the GS trade-in thread...

For those of you considering trading in Elite for $230, I'd jump all over that. I challenge someone to tell me of any venue you could use to get that much for just a Phat xbox console & hard drive (not bundling any games, accessories, etc.. with it). I would even be all over the $140; honestly, you would be hard-pressed to get that much of of that console anywhere, as well. Around here old Xbox's (even w/ hard drives) routinely go for $80-100. Hell, I just got a 4gb slim, kinect and dance central for $160 a few weeks ago; someone would have to be pretty hard up to give you $140 for it, and borderline insane to give you $230.

#15
MildObstruction
then let my “insanity” be the mother of my betrayal
CAGiversary! 16633 Posts Joined 11.5 Years Ago

Can you add the http://ativ.scurker.com link to the first post? Very handy for me and I'm afraid I'll lose it with the last thread haha.

Had it up there (under the useful links section) but made it more clear. Also added a link to the Chrome extension and made some brief updates regarding new condition rules and whatnot. If anyone has anything they'd like me to add, please let me know. Thanks!

Also, Mortal Kombat and are both trading in at $30 if anyone is sick of limb removal (if that's even possible).

Haven't checked one of these threads in a long time; do you guys still find a lot of good flips? I need to move $100 of GS credit to Amazon, but can't say I've been trying very hard lol. Seems like ever since they killed off the coupons and trade promos there has been nothing worthwhile.

Haven't checked one of these threads in a long time; do you guys still find a lot of good flips? I need to move $100 of GS credit to Amazon, but can't say I've been trying very hard lol. Seems like ever since they killed off the coupons and trade promos there has been nothing worthwhile.

You obviously haven't been paying attention. People were getting $200 for PS2 fats a couple weeks ago.

Haven't checked one of these threads in a long time; do you guys still find a lot of good flips? I need to move $100 of GS credit to Amazon, but can't say I've been trying very hard lol. Seems like ever since they killed off the coupons and trade promos there has been nothing worthwhile.

While not positive flip, it isn't too far off....Need for speed hot pursuit for the PS3 currently gets $30 on amazon but sells for $35 used at GS, after edge, that would be 31.50 plus tax

#24
MildObstruction
then let my “insanity” be the mother of my betrayal
CAGiversary! 16633 Posts Joined 11.5 Years Ago

Haven't checked one of these threads in a long time; do you guys still find a lot of good flips? I need to move $100 of GS credit to Amazon, but can't say I've been trying very hard lol. Seems like ever since they killed off the coupons and trade promos there has been nothing worthwhile.

I miss gamestop's delightful disasters. I had more fun gaming their coupon system than I do playing some of the games I got as a result. Seems the poweruprewards is the sad sack of a substitue, at least for now.

You obviously haven't been paying attention. People were getting $200 for PS2 fats a couple weeks ago.

Yeah, ever since the GS coupons died and Amazon just killed any promotions for trading in, I really haven't payed attention.

While not positive flip, it isn't too far off....Need for speed hot pursuit for the PS3 currently gets $30 on amazon but sells for $35 used at GS, after edge, that would be 31.50 plus tax

Not bad, but I tend to try and profit from the move at the same time. Thanks though!

I miss gamestop's delightful disasters. I had more fun gaming their coupon system than I do playing some of the games I got as a result. Seems the poweruprewards is the sad sack of a substitue, at least for now.

Exactly. I remember making hundreds off certain titles thanks to promos, coupons, and Amazon's trade of the day. Now it seems like too much effort to try and find a worthwhile flip.

For those of you considering trading in Elite for $230, I'd jump all over that. I challenge someone to tell me of any venue you could use to get that much for just a Phat xbox console & hard drive (not bundling any games, accessories, etc.. with it). I would even be all over the $140; honestly, you would be hard-pressed to get that much of of that console anywhere, as well. Around here old Xbox's (even w/ hard drives) routinely go for $80-100. Hell, I just got a 4gb slim, kinect and dance central for $160 a few weeks ago; someone would have to be pretty hard up to give you $140 for it, and borderline insane to give you $230.

Last time i sent in my elite: Which was priced at $130...great deal still..

it was rejected.....Best job i have ever done on a package, it even looked brand new.

Yeah, sgaldis, that's why I was hesitant to send mine in for the $172 quote a few weeks back. But the $230/$200 is just too tempting so I'm sending mine in this time. I just hope I don't get a broken one back .

update on the elite tiv:Like New $200.40Good $174.25Acceptable $122.00

anyone have a screen shot for when it was $230 Like New? I would like to have quotes for the other conditions in case Noram tries to pull something

Damn, I wish I had thought of that. I guess I assumed the other prices would be in my quote but they aren't. So, yeah, if anyone has this I'd like it too!

In other news, UPS was its usualy slow self (over 1 week) and NorAm took their sweet time (4 days to process) but I finally got my first trades from some of the BBV games accepted today. There were no issues with my 2 x Harry Potter Wii for the trade-in DotD pricing of $18 each. Its no $50 -> $200 PS2, but is nice nonetheless. I didn't end up sending much to Amazon as I diverted several games to GS instead when the 50% bonus started.

Jodou - the BBV sale a few weeks back provided some pretty easy flips!

Yeah, BBV is dead here. Besides, I haven't set foot in a store in 5+ years.

What do you mean dead here? While there are fewer stores, they are still pretty much everywhere (just maybe not so many per square mile as before ). If you haven't stepped foot in one in 5+ years then I don't think you really know if they are dead or not. I'd reconsider that as it has been one of the best places to get cheap used games (both for yourself and for flipping if you are into that sort of thing) over the last 2 years - not to mention the 99 cent DVDs and Blu-Rays they had this time around. There might be another B1G1 sale coming up on 4th of July weekend so I'd look into that if I were you.

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